What is the appropriate treatment for a first-degree burn?

The appropriate treatment for a first-degree burn is to flush the affected area with cool water and wrap it loosely. First-degree burns, which affect only the outer layer of skin, typically result in redness, minor swelling, and pain. Using cool water helps to alleviate pain and cool the burn area, reducing the risk of further skin damage.

Wrapping the burn loosely protects it from infection and further irritation while allowing the skin to breathe. It's important to avoid direct ice application since it can cause additional damage to the skin by constricting blood flow and potentially lead to frostbite. Similarly, immediate application of ointments or a tight bandage can impede healing and may trap heat, worsening the injury. Therefore, flushing with water and wrapping the burn loosely promotes optimal healing conditions for first-degree burns.